Facebook: ‘A one-stop shop for grooming’
ABUSE RISK CLAIM
FACEBOOK would become a “one-stop grooming shop” for child abusers if it starts to encrypt messages, campaigners say.
Site bosses led by chief Mark Zuckerberg are considering the move for Facebook Messenger and Instagram Direct. WhatsApp already uses the privacy tech.
The NSPCC says it could stop cops catching abusers. Figures showed just 3% of child abuse image and online child sex offences tackled by police came from encrypted WhatsApp messages.
NSPCC chief Andy Burrows said: “Facebook is choosing to give offenders a place to hide.”
A Facebook spokesman said they were proactive in tackling grooming.
He added: “We’re consulting with experts on the best ways to implement safety measures.”